Haleiwa Shark Tours — Attraction in Oʻahu

I live local, and went on a shark-diving experience with Haleiwa Shark Tours in October of 2019 with some friends. The weather that morning was overcast and the seas were a bit choppy, so I was nervous that our trip would be cancelled, but we headed out under light rain with assurances from the crew that all was well. When we got to our spot, we could see the sharks as soon as we pulled up--kind of greenish/grayish and just under the surface of the water. It was a little creepy at first, but so exciting! The crew at Haleiwa Shark Tours did an excellent job making us all feel comfortable--everyone was a first-timer, so we were all unsure of what to do. They taught us about the Galapagos sharks, how to use the equipment (which was notably clean and well-maintained), and assured us that we could stay in the cage for as long or as little as we liked. (I'm sure there is a limit to how long you are allowed to stay in, though!) There were approximately 8-10 Galapagos sharks under and around the boat and cage the entire time we were in the water. They were beautiful and majestic, and this tour gave me a new appreciation for these creatures. We used our Go Pro to record the experience and I was just amazed at all we saw! I was the first person in the water and the last person out--what an incredible experience! I do HIGHLY recommend, however, taking dramamine or wearing an anti-nausea patch. Even if you don't typically get seasick, you never know how choppy the seas will be that day, or how disoriented you can become while looking under the water for so long. I took Dramamine that morning and STILL got sick and "fed the sharks" after I got back on the boat. It was totally embarrassing, but the crew never made me feel bad at all. They were kind and thoughtful, and exemplified the spirit of Aloha. My sister and her husband also recently visited us from the mainland, and I recommended Haleiwa Shark Tours to them--they reported that their tour was just as great as ours! Top notch professional experience--mahalo nui loa for...

If I could give a 4.5 that would be good. I’ll explain- first off 5/5 for seeing that big of sharks up close! Very very cool. Boat was very nice and crew were great. Easy to find with instructions sent day before! I love that it’s locally owned company

However I didn’t realize the size of cage vs how many people on board - only 11 of us so split in half and each group only got 20 min in the cage . I was expecting a little bit longer time for the price paid and length of tour. I like to know what to expect so that came as a shock I assumed everyone would be in for the length we were there . Would be better if companies advertise this so not false expectations

For my own experience, there wasn’t a photographer so I had a nice camera I was using for my parents… there was a newly wed couple on board who didn’t have a camera , we were in different groups going in water , couple asked me if I could take a few pictures for them I said yes but crew absolutely wouldn’t let me in for a second longer than 20 min as it wouldn’t be fair to others if wanted more time too… I understand that but those other people weren’t asked to take pics, AND there could have been some flexibility either asking other passengers how they felt or let me get in for a minute and end of the first group just to snap a few- getting photos from above is not even close to the same as underwater. Anyway I was just volunteering to help and feel like I got slammed for it with no way to work around- just didn’t sit well with me - especially when one guy on board got out after 5 min in the cage? Sure it won’t work if everyone wants extra time but usually that’s not the case… anyway just personal opinion and experience! Otherwise...

An Unforgettable Encounter with the Ocean's Majesty! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Our recent shark dive with Haleiwa Shark Tours was, without a doubt, one of the most exhilarating and awe-inspiring experiences of my life. From the moment we set out on the boat, the crew, Captain Derek and Captain Lono were fantastic – professional, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about marine conservation. Their thorough safety briefing put everyone at ease, even those of us who were a little nervous including me 😁. The anticipation built as we approached the dive site, and the sight of the sharks in their natural habitat was simply breathtaking. Observing these magnificent creatures up close, their power and grace undeniable, was an incredibly humbling experience. It's one thing to see them on TV or YouTube, but to witness them gliding effortlessly through the water, their eyes intelligent and curious, is something truly special. The visibility was excellent, and we were fortunate enough to see a variety of Galapagos and Gray Reef sharks. The crew expertly identified each one and shared fascinating facts about their behavior and the crucial role they play in the ocean's ecosystem. It was educational as well as thrilling! The entire operation was run with the utmost respect for the animals and their environment. It was clear that this company prioritizes the safety of both the divers and the sharks, adhering to ethical and sustainable practices. If you're looking for an adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for marine life, I wholeheartedly recommend Haleiwa Shark Tours in Hawaii. It's an experience you won't...